The sophomore class of Health Sciences & Human Services High School (HS3) participated in a variety of events during the school’s first annual Human Services Week. Per the objectives of the week, students explored the concept of “service to others,” (a component of the HS3 mission statement), explored careers in the human services field, and participated in a service project. In addition, students spent a day at the University of Washington, with special visits to the College of Education and School of Social Work.
On campus, HS3 students paired with the international services arm of the American Red Cross to bring guest speaker Kurt Chesko of The HALO Trust to speak on the issue of landmines. HALO is a non-political, non-profit organization that specializes in the removal of the debris of war. This includes landmines, unexploded ordinances (UXO), and hand weapons. Students heard about the history of landmine usage, human and economic impacts caused by landmines, as well as the technological aspects of landmine removal. One of HALO’s largest demining projects is in Cambodia, which held particular interest of students of Cambodian heritage. One student of Cambodian background shared with his teachers that a family member in Cambodia had suffered injury from a landmine while farming. Students took action regarding this issue by writing letters to Washington State senators communicating their stance regarding the United States’ failure to sign the Ottawa Treaty, which aims to ban landmines worldwide.
In addition to the global perspective, 25 students partnered with the American Red Cross Youth Services branch to teach first aid at a Kirkland Elementary School. Participating sophomores reflected on their practice with public speaking and the patience it takes to work with children.
A special guest speaker during the week was Kevin Berg, an Evergreen alum with cerebral palsy. Kevin, with his wife, has committed his life to his non-profit organization, The Access Life Program. Access Life aims to provide wheelchairs to people with disabilities in order to help them get out of the house and live a more satisfying life.
Overall, the purpose of the week was to challenge students with real-world opportunities to serve others, and I’m convinced that students rose to that challenge.
Left photo: Joseph Spirka on UW campus visit.
Center photo: Nicole Alefaio and Craig Cinderich with presenter Kurt Chesko from The HALO Trust. Students are wearing the protective gear of a deminer.
Right photo: Anastasia Janecke helps elementary student learn first aid basics.
Contributed by Alethea Young, HS3 instructor
